Organocatalytic Synthesis of (Het)biaryl Scaffolds via Photoinduced Intra/Inter Molecular C(sp2)−H Arylation by 2-pyridone Derivative

An unique N,O-bidentate ligand 6-oxo-1,6-dihydro-pyridone-2-carboxylic acid dimethylamide (L1) catalyzed direct C(sp2)−H (intra/intermolecular)arylation of unactivated arenes has been developed to expedite the access of (Het)biaryl scaffolds under UV-irradiation at room temperature. The protocol tolerated diverse functional groups and substitution patterns, affording the target products in moderate to excellent yields. Mechanistic investigations were also realized to better understand the reaction pathway. Furthermore, the synthetic applicability of this unified approach has been showcased via the construction of biologically relevant 4-quinolone, tricyclic lactam and sultam derivatives.